Apple will launch TV+ on Android phones in an effort to increase subscriber numbers.
Apple Inc. has introduced its TV+ video service for Android phones for the first time in an effort to boost its streaming user base.
On Wednesday, the TV+ app became available for free download from the Google Play Store. The service, which debuted in 2019, had previously been limited to the company's own operating system and third-party TV platforms such as Roku. Bloomberg News previously reported that the app's release was near.
The move marks the first time Apple has offered services on Google's Android operating system, its main smartphone competition. Though Apple offers its Music service as an Android app, it normally prefers to retain users within its own product ecosystem.
This move shows that Apple is attempting to increase the attractiveness of TV+ and fight streaming services such as Netflix and Disney+. Though the iPhone manufacturer has had hits on the site, such as Severance and Ted Lasso, industry estimates show that it lags well below the most popular platforms in terms of viewership. Apple has never provided TV+ subscription or revenue data.
Apple TV+, which once cost $4.99 per month, is now $9.99 per month. Bloomberg News initially reported last year that Apple was developing an Android app for TV+. A representative from the Cupertino, California-based corporation declined to comment.
In addition to the TV+ change, Apple will allow customers to access their MLS Season Pass through the Android TV+ app. In February 2023, Apple released the service, which allows fans to watch Major League Soccer matches.